The 2019 UK Construction Week is turning its attention to more innovative forms of building work. Since the UK is facing the biggest decrease in new work since 2009, more building companies are starting to embrace emerging technologies, especially since digital construction innovations are on the cusp of taking off across the world. This year’s Construction Week, held in the NEC in Birmingham, will dedicate more time than ever to this niche within the building industry. Builders will utilise digital construction to create a new slim-design concept hotel, planned to be located opposite Birmingham’s Grand Central Station, which aims to inspire building planners and nudge them towards the implementation of digital construction in more UK construction projects.
A Call for Investment in Modern Equipment
It is no secret that construction work within the UK lacks the vigour of a few years ago. With the continuing uncertainty of the UK’s departure from the European Union and a fear of investment from both the government and private companies, construction projects seem to have slowed or come to a halt entirely. In particular, there seems to be a lack of excitement when it comes to new building projects. This is why there are calls to focus on modernisation at UK Construction Week in a bid to inspire more foreign investors to take part in influencing the market.
New technologies and digital services are a great way to boost investment in building work. For instance, startup construction companies can use a skylift rental service to build tall structures even with limited funds, while 3D printing is offering an increasingly cheap method of architectural design. These innovative products and services are exactly what’s needed to stimulate innovation in Britain’s construction industry and to draw investors to new projects.
What is Digital Construction?
Digital tools are far more efficient and cost-effective when it comes to construction. Digital construction is simply the application of such tools in the building process. This could include the use of online platforms that reduce the need for travel and improve communication, thereby lowering costs and speeding up the completion of a building project.
Beyond this, it may go as far as using artificial intelligence to design buildings and using robots to build them. Automating as much of the process as possible cuts down on mistakes while lowering costs and speeding up construction rates. Naturally, this will lead to crucial debates about the job security of employees in the construction industry.
The rate of building work in the UK is lacking, with a general sense of uncertainty negatively impacting on investment. New technology can help to lower the costs of construction and improve results. At the same time, digitisation will inject some excitement into the industry and help Britain to be a leader when it comes to modern building techniques. While UK Construction Week will focus on the digitisation of building design, the industry will need to balance this with the needs of construction workers.
